Husband of Woman Killed in Freak Accident on Flight Speaks Out Days After Tragedy

Last week, an absolutely tragic situation took place on Southwest Flight 1380. An engine failed while 32,000 feet above ground, resulting in one death.

In a freak accident, passenger Jennifer Riordan was partially sucked out of the plane’s window. Fellow passengers nearby were able to pull her back inside of the aircraft, but sadly, she passed away.

The 43-year-old was the first person to die on a U.S. airline in an accident in almost 10 years. Jennifer was a mother of two and had been married to the love of her life, Michael, for many years. They met when she was only 15 years old.

Michael revealed that it was a chaplain at Philadelphia hospital that broke the news to him. The plane made an emergency landing in PA and Jennifer’s body was taken to the hospital.

After asking if it was Jennifer’s husband, Michael said, “‘Yes, but she wasn’t going through Philadelphia. She was planning on going to Chicago so I don’t think you—‘ just absolute denial. I’m still in denial.”

Michael said that the chaplain wanted to get a doctor get on the line to give more information. During that time, he looked up the accident online. Because he saw that the plane didn’t crash and that only one person was taken to the hospital, he assumed that his beloved wife only had injuries. Only two minutes later, the doctor broke the heartbreaking news.

Michael said, “I immediately thought of the kids and how do you tell your kids their mom was gone…I just held their little hands and took a knee and said, ‘Mommy’s not going to come home guys.’”

In the aftermath of Jennifer’s death, Michael said, “I have not been angry yet. I’m sure it’s coming. I’m keeping my love for her in my heart and I’m staying strong for my children, and I’m soaking in their looks to me…their looks to me, their hugs to me are what my rock is. And without that, I don’t know what I would do.”

“Our last conversation was that. She called just to say, ‘I’m going to the airport,’ and we said, ‘love you, safe travels,’” he recalled.

Days after the accident, hundreds of people attended Jennifer’s funeral to show their support to the family. Michael told ABC that because of that experience, he felt more peace.

Gary Kelly, Southwest Airlines CEO, said, “This is a sad day, and our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of the deceased customer.”

Since the accident took place on a Boeing 727, the company spoke out as well, sending their condolences to the family.

Please continue praying for the Riordan family during this difficult time. Share your prayers here!